How SaaS procurement works
Use this information to learn how to get a SaaS tool for your team or ministry.
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What is the procurement process
The procurement process for B.C. public service employees involves a series of steps to find, choose and buy goods or services from suppliers. This process is mandatory and ensures that you remain compliant with B.C. government procurement, privacy, security and legal requirements.
The SaaS team refers to the steps of getting a SaaS tool as the “SaaS adoption process.”
What to expect
The process of adopting a SaaS tool consists of 5 main steps, with more specific tasks included within each step. The 5-step process varies depending on your total costs. It’s important to conduct online research and estimate your total expenses prior to moving forward with the process. Consult with your Ministry’s procurement specialists or the OCIO’s SaaS adoption team for more information.
Be prepared for an iterative adoption journey
The time it takes to plan and start using a SaaS tool can vary. It might take as little as a few months or as long as a year, or more, depending on different factors.
There may also be an opportunity to purchase your SaaS tool through one of the Province’s Corporate Supply Arrangements or through a Multi-Use List. This path can significantly shorten the time it takes to adopt a SaaS tool.
Procure SaaS based on your total budget
The procurement process is different depending on your budget. Conduct online research to estimate your expenses and do some basic calculations.
How to determine your costs
To calculate the estimated subscription costs for the SaaS tool, you can follow these two steps:
- Calculate the initial cost for a single user license of the SaaS tool.
Monthly Cost per User = Highest SaaS subscription cost found × Length of time the Province intends to use the SaaS tool in months - Determine the total estimated subscription costs for all users.
Total Estimated Subscription Costs = Monthly cost per user × Number of users
By following these steps, you can first find the monthly cost for one user’s license of the SaaS tool based on the highest subscription cost and the length of time it will be used in months. Then, you can calculate the total estimated subscription costs by multiplying the monthly cost per user by the number of users who will be utilizing the tool during that period.
Under $75,000
Discover your next steps for SaaS tools with an estimated total contract value that is less than, but not equal to $75,000.
$75,000 and up
Learn how to adopt a SaaS tool with an estimated total contract value that is greater than or equal to $75,000.